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Buying Online Businesses Podcast

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May 7, 2025 • 38min

How AI Will Change Business Acquisitions & Exits Forever with Adam Boostrom

What if the biggest business opportunity of the next decade wasn’t just about what you buy or sell… but how you do it? In this eye-opening episode of the Buying Online Businesses podcast, Jaryd Krause sits down with futurist, author, and AI evangelist Adam Boostrom to explore how artificial intelligence is not only revolutionizing online business—but completely transforming the way we buy, grow, and exit them. With degrees from the University of Chicago and UC Berkeley, Adam is no stranger to complex systems. He’s advised leaders, written bestselling sci-fi novels like Athena’s Choice, and now spends his time helping business owners reimagine what’s possible in the AI age. Together, Jaryd and Adam break down: How AI and AI agents can help you identify the right business to buy—faster and more accurately Ways to train AI tools to uncover financing options and analyze the perfect business size for your goals How to supercharge growth using AI-powered insights pulled directly from your competitors What it looks like when an AI agent runs due diligence for you—collecting data, preparing your listing, even building your exit strategy Plus, real prompts you can start using today to save time, boost profits, and take the guesswork out of your next big move If you’re a business buyer, seller, or operator, this conversation is your front-row seat to the future of entrepreneurship—and it’s coming faster than you think. Ready to make more money, with less manual work, and a whole lot more clarity? Let’s dive into the future of online business… with AI at the wheel.   Episode Highlights 03:16 - How AI is changing business acquisitions? 10:00 - Using AI to grow businesses by adopting competitors' strategies 14:00 - AI’s role in outcompeting rivals, like Moneyball in baseball 19:00 - How does digital labor and AI increase business efficiency? 31:38 - The need for brokers to adapt or risk being left behind   Key Takeaways ➥ AI is revolutionizing business acquisitions by offering repeatable processes and increasing efficiencies. ➥ Digital agents are making business operations far more efficient and streamlined. ➥ Recognizing new AI capabilities early can give businesses a competitive edge. ➥ AI can transform hiring processes and company culture for better outcomes. ➥ Online brokers need to integrate AI or risk falling behind in the market. ➥ Entrepreneurs can scale rapidly by acquiring multiple businesses using AI-driven strategies. About The Guest Adam Boostrom is a consultant, author, futurist, and unashamed lover of artificial intelligence. Through keynote addresses and foresight workshops, he partners with clients to reimagine the business scenarios of tomorrow. After earning degrees from the University of Chicago School of Economics, and the UC Berkeley Haas School of Business, Adam moved to New York, where he writes white papers and science fiction novels in his free time. His first book, Athena’s Choice, was an award-winning bestseller about an AI-enabled future without men. More recently, Adam has discovered an unrecognized talent for bar trivia.   Connect with Adam Boostrom ➥ https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-boostrom/    Resource Links ➥ Connect with Jaryd Krause - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarydkrause ➥ Buying Online Businesses Website - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com ➥ Sell your business to us here - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/sell-your-business/ ➥ Download the Due Diligence Framework - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/freeresources/➥ Connect with Jaryd here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarydkrause  ➥ Cloud Ways (Website Hosting) - https://bit.ly/40tjyjG ➥ Surfer SEO (SEO tool for content writing) - https://bit.ly/3WWMKjM ➥ Market Muse (Content Marketing Software) - https://bit.ly/3Me39L0   🔥Buy & Sell Online Businesses Here (Top Website Brokers We Use) 🔥 ➥ Empire Flippers - https://bit.ly/3RtyMkE ➥ Flippa - https://bit.ly/3wGa8r5 ➥ Motion Invest - https://bit.ly/3YmJAmO➥ Investors Club - https://bit.ly/3ZpgioR   *This post may contain affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site/posts at no additional cost to you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Apr 30, 2025 • 47min

Finding Passion & Purpose In Acquisitions, Exits, Entrepreneurship & Life with Raleigh Williams

Join Raleigh Williams, a former Mergers & Acquisitions lawyer turned entrepreneur, as he shares his inspiring journey from law to launching a successful escape room business. He discusses the importance of finding purpose in work and life, blending passion with business endeavors. Raleigh explores the mental health struggles that can arise from chasing traditional success and how to rediscover creativity post-exit. With insights on navigating the entrepreneurial rollercoaster and achieving fulfillment, this conversation is a treasure trove for anyone seeking joy in their business journey.
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Apr 23, 2025 • 37min

Buy A $1M Biz With $25K Using SBA Finance with Beau Eckstein

In this special episode, Jaryd Krause sits down with Beau Eckstein to explore how aspiring entrepreneurs can buy a $1 million business with as little as $25,000 using SBA financing. Beau is a franchise and SBA loan expert, a seasoned business ownership coach, and the host of the Investor Financing podcast. With over 26 years of experience in lending, financing, and business acquisitions, he has helped thousands of entrepreneurs secure funding and successfully transition from employees to business owners. Throughout the episode, Beau shares his insights on navigating the SBA loan process—from understanding eligibility and repayment terms to exploring what kinds of businesses qualify. He and Jarrah also dive into creative deal structures that allow buyers to acquire businesses with minimal capital, the risks involved, and why commitment is essential when it comes to buying a business. Beau emphasizes building wealth through smart acquisitions and explains how owning multiple SBA-backed businesses can lead to lasting financial freedom and significant tax advantages. Real-world examples are discussed, comparing the financial outcomes of acquiring a $1M business with financing versus purchasing a smaller business outright. This episode is a must-listen for U.S.-based entrepreneurs looking to step into business ownership with strategic leverage.      Episode Highlights 03:00 How do you buy a business through financing? 10:00 What is the fattest way to replace your income? 19:00 Is buying a larger business more profitable? 26:30 Why is having a mentor crucial for your success? 37:00 Where to find Beau? Key Takeaways ➥ The business must demonstrate enough cash flow to cover loan repayment (debt service coverage). ➥ Credit score of 680+, a solid resume (not necessarily industry-specific), and ideally some outside income or the ability to draw a salary from the business. ➥ Acquiring cash-flowing businesses with SBA leverage can accelerate wealth creation. About The Guest Beau Eckstein is a franchise and SBA loan expert, business ownership coach, and seasoned investor with over 26 years of experience in lending, franchising, and business acquisition. As the host of The Investor Financing Podcast, Beau has helped thousands of aspiring entrepreneurs secure funding, navigate the complexities of SBA loans, and find the perfect franchise or business to own. Through his extensive network and deep industry expertise, Beau connects business buyers with the right opportunities while guiding them through the financing process. His content—spanning podcasts, YouTube videos, and live events have generated millions in funded deals and empowered entrepreneurs to transition from employees to successful business owners. Beau’s passion is helping people break free from the corporate grind, build lasting wealth, and create their legacy. Connect with Beau Eckstein    ➥ https://beaueckstein.com/bookwithbeau/ ➥ https://beaueckstein.com   Resource Links ➥ Buying Online Businesses Website - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com ➥ Sell your business to us here - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/sell-your-business/ ➥ Download the Due Diligence Framework - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/freeresources/➥ Connect with Jaryd here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarydkrause  🔥Buy & Sell Online Businesses Here (Top Website Brokers We Use) 🔥 ➥ Empire Flippers - https://bit.ly/3RtyMkE ➥ Flippa - https://bit.ly/3wGa8r5 ➥ Motion Invest - https://bit.ly/3YmJAmO➥ Investors Club - https://bit.ly/3ZpgioR   *This post may contain affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site/posts at no additional cost to you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Apr 16, 2025 • 39min

Creating Your Bolt On Business Acquisition Strategy with Marty M. Fahncke

Many business owners overlook a powerful strategy hiding in plain sight—using their marketing budget to fuel acquisitions and build a portfolio of successful businesses. In this episode of the Buying Online Businesses podcast, host Jaryd Krause speaks with Marty Fahncke, a seasoned marketer with over 30 years of experience in business growth and scaling. With more than two decades in mergers and acquisitions, Marty has helped businesses reach over a billion dollars in revenue and has executed more than $450 million in M&A transactions. This conversation delves into the key aspects of acquiring and selling online businesses, including: ✔️ The types and sizes of businesses that are ideal for acquisition✔️ Common mistakes sellers make and how to avoid them✔️ Strategies for bolting on businesses to an existing brand✔️ The process of identifying, acquiring, and financing the right business✔️ The "leaky bucket" problem and how businesses can save thousands of dollars per month For anyone looking to scale through acquisitions and make smarter investment decisions in the online business space, this episode is for you. Tune in to discover how to leverage acquisitions for long-term growth.   Episode Highlights 02:40 Marty’s journey as an M&A Advisor 11:30 A good relationship is sometimes the key! 18:00 How to build a growth strategy? 25:00 What’s the timeframe in selling a business? 33:20 Not all businesses are sellable 38:00 Reputation is everything!   Key Takeaways ➥ Buying a business with proven revenue is often a safer bet than scaling through paid advertising, which requires time, testing, and investment with no guaranteed success. ➥ U.S. buyers can leverage SBA loans to acquire businesses with minimal upfront capital, while international buyers often rely on self-funding or revenue-based financing from third-party lenders. ➥Strengthen your core business before acquiring—acquisition is not a fix for internal issues.   About The Guest Meet Marty M. Fahncke (pronounced Fawn-Key), a seasoned world-class Marketer with over 30 years of experience in growing & scaling businesses, and over 20 years of experience in Mergers and Acquisitions. In that time, Marty has helped businesses scale to over $1 Billion in revenue and executed over $450 million in Mergers and Acquisitions transactions.   Connect with Marty M. Fahncke   ➥ https://www.WestboundRoad.com   Resource Links ➥ Buying Online Businesses Website - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com ➥ Sell your business to us here - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/sell-your-business/ ➥ Download the Due Diligence Framework - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/freeresources/➥ Connect with Jaryd here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarydkrause  🔥Buy & Sell Online Businesses Here (Top Website Brokers We Use) 🔥 ➥ Empire Flippers - https://bit.ly/3RtyMkE ➥ Flippa - https://bit.ly/3wGa8r5 ➥ Motion Invest - https://bit.ly/3YmJAmO➥ Investors Club - https://bit.ly/3ZpgioR   *This post may contain affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site/posts at no additional cost to you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Apr 9, 2025 • 44min

How M&A Advisors Unlock Wealth In Your Business Acquisition Journey with Michael Frankel

In this episode, we feature a thought-provoking conversation with Michael Frankel, the founder and managing partner of Trajectory Capital. With decades of experience in corporate development, innovation strategy, and corporate ventures, Michael has held C-level roles at prominent companies like Deloitte, Lexis Nexis Group, GE Capital, and VeriSign. Having participated in over 110 deals throughout his career, he brings valuable insights to the table. They dive into the world of Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A), exploring why it can serve as a strategic "cheat code" for scaling businesses. However, as Frankel emphasizes, M&A isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. The discussion covers how business owners can evaluate whether acquisitions are the right growth strategy and what considerations are essential for success. Michael shares useful tips on: Developing a clear acquisition strategy that aligns with business goals Identifying suitable targets, whether for products, technology, talent, or market expansion Financing acquisitions while effectively managing risks Recognizing the critical role an M&A advisor plays in minimizing risks and maximizing ROI If you're thinking about growing your business through acquisitions or want to know how M&A can build wealth, this episode is packed with practical advice. Michael’s experience offers valuable guidance to help you make smart choices. Tune in and find out how M&A could be the key to your business growth. Episode Highlights 02:50 Michael’s background as “CFO” 11:00 How to grow a business through acquisition? 20:30 How do you get the capital for your business? 29:00 You need M&A to execute the transaction! 38:30 Be better at what you do by repeating it 43:30 Where to find Michael? Key Takeaways ➥ Decisions should be data-driven. Analyze sales, marketing, and operational data to identify what’s working and where improvements can be made. ➥ Before acquiring, compare the benefits of building a solution in-house versus buying an existing business. ➥ A strategic CFO can turn financial data into actionable insights that drive growth and optimize operations. ➥Advisors offer expert insights and reduce risks, ensuring you make informed decisions. About The Guest Michael Frankel is the Founder and Managing Partner of Trajectory Capital.  He has held C-level executive roles (corporate development, strategy/innovation, CFO, COO) at large and small growth companies.  He is a Corporate Development, Innovation, Strategy, and Corporate Venture leader who has driven aggressive growth/expansion at global technology, information services, and professional services companies including Deloitte, LexisNexis Group, IRI, GE Capita,l and VeriSign.  Michael has a track record of executing growth strategies using acquisitions, ecosystems,s and corporate venture investments (over 110 deals across his career).     Connect with Michael Frankel   ➥ https://michaelfrankel.com/ ➥ https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankelmichael/ Resource Links ➥ Buying Online Businesses Website - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com ➥ Sell your business to us here - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/sell-your-business/ ➥ Download the Due Diligence Framework - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/freeresources/➥ Connect with Jaryd here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarydkrause  ➥ Site Ground (Website Hosting) - https://bit.ly/3JBEC1u ➥ Surfer SEO (SEO tool for content writing) - https://bit.ly/3WWMKjM ➥ Convert Kit (Email Software Provider) - https://bit.ly/3o10Xgx 🔥Buy & Sell Online Businesses Here (Top Website Brokers We Use) 🔥 ➥ Empire Flippers - https://bit.ly/3RtyMkE ➥ Flippa - https://bit.ly/3wGa8r5 ➥ Motion Invest - https://bit.ly/3YmJAmO➥ Investors Club - https://bit.ly/3ZpgioR   *This post may contain affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you purchase through links on our site/posts at no additional cost to you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Apr 2, 2025 • 35min

Legal Due Diligence Mistakes To Avoid When Acquiring An E-commerce Business with Paul Rafelson

When acquiring an e-commerce business, conducting thorough legal due diligence is essential to mitigating risk and ensuring a sound investment. Overlooking critical legal aspects can lead to unforeseen liabilities, intellectual property disputes, or tax complications that may jeopardize the deal. In this episode, Jaryd Krause speaks with Paul Rafelson, a seasoned attorney with over 15 years of experience in corporate law, M&A, intellectual property, and tax matters. A highly regarded expert in the e-commerce space, Rafelson is frequently cited in major news outlets and was the most referenced source in the U.S. government’s investigation into Amazon’s business practices regarding third-party merchants. Before launching his private practice focused on e-commerce businesses, he held in-house legal positions at major corporations such as Microsoft, Walmart, and General Electric. This discussion explores the most common legal due diligence mistakes buyers make when acquiring an e-commerce business, the risks sellers often overlook, and strategies to protect both parties. The conversation also dives into legal pitfalls specific to Amazon-based businesses, where a significant portion of revenue is tied to a single product. Additionally, Rafelson provides insight into why some lawyers hinder deals rather than facilitate them and offers guidance on selecting legal professionals specializing in e-commerce acquisitions. Tune in to gain expert knowledge on safeguarding an e-commerce acquisition through proper legal due diligence. Now, let’s dive in!   Episode Highlights 03:00 Paul’s journey into M&A 11:00 Acquire trademarks too! 19:00 What to check when buying a business? 24:30 What is going to the beach syndrome? 31:30 Why understanding risks are important?   Key Takeaways ➥ Proper due diligence ensures a smoother acquisition process and prevents legal pitfalls. ➥ Buyers must focus on IP rights, legal compliance, and financing options to make informed decisions. ➥ As the market evolves, understanding these factors is key to successful e-commerce investments.   About The Paul Rafelson Paul Rafelson is an experienced attorney with over 15 years in complex Corporate, Intellectual Property M&A and Tax matters. He is also a trusted resource in the e-commerce world, regularly quoted in the news on the issues involving Amazon and e-commerce. Paul was also the most-cited source of information in the US government's investigation into Amazon’s business practices as it pertains to third-party merchants. Before starting a private practice dedicated to the needs of e-commerce businesses, Paul spent the majority of his career in-house at some of the largest companies in the world such as Microsoft, Walmart, and General Electric.   Connect with Paul Rafelson   ➥ www.ecom.law➥ www.sellerbasics.com   Resource Links ➥ Buying Online Businesses Website - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com ➥ Sell your business to us here - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/sell-your-business/ ➥ Download the Due Diligence Framework - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/freeresources/➥ Connect with Jaryd here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarydkrause  ➥ Hostinger (Website Hosting) - https://bit.ly/3HUqW0s ➥ SEM Rush (SEO tool) - https://bit.ly/3lINGaV ➥ Convert Kit (Email Software Provider) - https://bit.ly/3o10Xgx 🔥Buy & Sell Online Businesses Here (Top Website Brokers We Use) 🔥 ➥ Empire Flippers - https://bit.ly/3RtyMkE ➥ Flippa - https://bit.ly/3wGa8r5 ➥ Motion Invest - https://bit.ly/3YmJAmO➥ Investors Club - https://bit.ly/3ZpgioR   *This post may contain affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site/posts at no additional cost to you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Mar 26, 2025 • 42min

Buying 7+ Businesses Using The Growth By Acquisition Strategy with Link Moser

How do you build a portfolio of businesses using the growth by acquisition method? For today’s episode of Buying Online Businesses podcast, Jaryd is joined by Link Moser—an accomplished marketing executive with over 25 years of experience in B2B digital marketing. Link has a proven track record in SEO, SEM, and PPC campaigns that drive online visibility, fuel revenue growth, and enhance business performance. He’s also an expert in UX-driven website development, leveraging mobile-first strategies to maximize ROI. Beyond marketing, Link is an entrepreneur who has successfully used the growth by acquisition model to expand his business portfolio. In this episode, they dive into how he transitioned from running a hosting business with strong recurring revenue to acquiring multiple businesses as a strategic way to scale. They discuss the types of businesses Link purchased, the deal structures, financing strategies, and the lessons he learned—both the wins and the challenges. Link also shares invaluable advice for entrepreneurs looking to grow their portfolios through acquisitions rather than traditional marketing strategies. If you’re interested in business growth, acquisitions, and learning from someone who’s done it successfully, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Enjoy!   Episode Highlights 02:00 Link’s journey before acquiring businesses 08:00 Why focus on local acquisitions before expanding regionally and nationally? 16:00 Having a great sales channel is crucial 25:00 Post-closing relationship is important more than you think! 32:00 Be prepared with a contingency plan 41:00 Where to find Link Moser?    Key Takeaways ➥ If organic business growth is difficult, acquiring competitors or similar businesses can be a faster and more effective strategy. ➥ Understanding a seller’s reason for exiting (retirement, financial struggles, etc.) helps in structuring a win-win deal. ➥ Having a detailed plan for the transition, including how the previous owners will assist and how client relationships will be maintained, helps avoid misunderstandings. ➥ Even if a deal appears risk-free (e.g., no money down, earn-out model), proper due diligence is essential.   About The Guest Link Moser is an accomplished marketing executive with over 25 years of success in driving world-class B2B digital marketing strategies for enterprise organizations and startups. Known for delivering impactful SEO, SEM, and PPC campaigns that enhance online visibility, fuel revenue growth, and boost performance. Expertise includes leading UX-driven website development, from design to content, with a mobile-first approach to reach target audiences and maximize ROI. Link is broadly recognized for his strong interpersonal and communication skills, entrepreneurial spirit, and the ability to quickly adopt and implement new technologies and processes to create immediate value.   Connect with Link Moser  ➥ http://www.linkmoser.com/   Resource Links ➥ Buying Online Businesses Website - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com ➥ Sell your business to us here - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/sell-your-business/ ➥ Download the Due Diligence Framework - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/freeresources/➥ Connect with Jaryd here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarydkrause  ➥ Site Ground (Website Hosting) - https://bit.ly/3JBEC1u ➥ Surfer SEO (SEO tool for content writing) - https://bit.ly/3WWMKjM ➥ Convert Kit (Email Software Provider) - https://bit.ly/3o10Xgx 🔥Buy & Sell Online Businesses Here (Top Website Brokers We Use) 🔥 ➥ Empire Flippers - https://bit.ly/3RtyMkE ➥ Flippa - https://bit.ly/3wGa8r5 ➥ Motion Invest - https://bit.ly/3YmJAmO➥ Investors Club - https://bit.ly/3ZpgioR   *This post may contain affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site/posts at no additional cost to you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Mar 19, 2025 • 45min

1-1 Coaching Call] Mental Preparation For Acquiring and Scaling An Online Business with Jaryd Krause

Acquiring and scaling an online business requires more than just financial investment—it demands the right mindset, strategic preparation, and a deep understanding of the evolving digital landscape. In this special episode of the Buying Online Businesses podcast, Jaryd Krause answers the most pressing questions submitted by his audience—questions they would ask during a one-on-one coaching session. From securing financing and selecting the right business model to navigating AI’s impact on online businesses, Jaryd provides in-depth insights, real-world examples, and practical strategies for sustainable growth. You will learn valuable knowledge on minimizing risks, leveraging AI for success, and developing the mindset needed to thrive in the online business space. This episode is designed to help entrepreneurs make confident, informed decisions on their journey to acquiring and scaling digital assets. Tune in now!     Episode Highlights 02:00 Do’s and Don’ts when acquiring a business! 11:30 Why do you need a business coach? 17:30 How AI is changing the online business landscape? 24:00 Choose a business that suits your lifestyle and income goals 33:00 Financing options for acquiring businesses Key Takeaways ➥ Using a 401(k) to buy a business is risky and should only be considered if the individual has substantial assets. ➥ Most business acquisitions involve a maximum of 20% seller financing, with the rest requiring cash or external funding. ➥ Focus on internal factors rather than external strategies. This applies to health, business, and personal growth. ➥The key is selecting a business model that aligns with lifestyle and long-term fulfillment rather than purely financial gain.     Check out other episodes: Ep 90 - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/the-one-thing-that-every-website-investor-has-that-you-dont/ Ep 91 - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/mindset-series-part-2-how-to-become-a-confident-website-investor/  Ep 92 - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/what-stops-most-people-from-buying-a-website-business/  Ep 93 - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/how-to-run-and-grow-the-business-website-you-just-bought/   Resource Links ➥ Connect with Jaryd here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarydkrause  ➥ Buying Online Businesses Website - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com ➥ Sell your business to us here - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/sell-your-business/ ➥ Download the Due Diligence Framework - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/freeresources/➥ Connect with Jaryd here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarydkrause  ➥ Cloud Ways (Website Hosting) - https://bit.ly/40tjyjG ➥ Semrush (SEO tool) - https://bit.ly/3lINGaV ➥ Ezoic (Ad Network) - https://bit.ly/3NuVR5P 🔥Buy & Sell Online Businesses Here (Top Website Brokers We Use) 🔥 ➥ Empire Flippers - https://bit.ly/3RtyMkE ➥ Flippa - https://bit.ly/3wGa8r5 ➥ Motion Invest - https://bit.ly/3YmJAmO➥ Investors Club - https://bit.ly/3ZpgioR   *This post may contain affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site/posts at no additional cost to you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Mar 12, 2025 • 40min

Business Acquisition Mistakes Buyers & Sellers Make When Acquiring Online Business with Ross Gerson

Many buyers overlook one of the most valuable yet intangible assets that come with acquiring an online business.  This episode features Ross Gerson, founder of DealSlide.com and a former broker at Empire Flippers. With extensive experience on both the buy and sell sides of online business acquisitions, Gerson shares key insights into the most frequent mistakes buyers and sellers make—and how to avoid them. The discussion covers several compelling topics, including Krause’s near-experience as a broker at Empire Flippers, a role Gerson had originally approached him for. Gerson also explains his transition into acquisition advising and consulting, detailing his work with WebStreet and his involvement in acquiring over 15 to 20 content sites. You will gain valuable insights into critical acquisition mistakes, such as the importance of direct communication with sellers, defining clear acquisition criteria, and navigating the transition period after a purchase. The conversation also highlights Deal Slide, Gerson’s marketplace that aggregates listings from over 20 brokers, streamlining the search process for buyers. Packed with expert advice, this episode guides anyone looking to buy or sell an online business, helping them maximize their acquisition strategy while setting themselves up for a successful exit. Let’s get started! Episode Highlights 03:00 Why Ross moved into online business acquisitions? 11:00 Ross learnings from being a broker at Empire Flippers 19:00 Get an extra from the deal! 25:00 Surprises in the seller's side 39:00 Where to find Ross? Key Takeaways ➥ Many buyers enter the market without a clear understanding of what type of business suits them best. Taking the time to assess personal skills, experience, and workload preference is crucial.  ➥ New buyers often fear looking inexperienced, but embracing the learning process leads to better decision-making. ➥ Off-market deals are not always better. Broker-listed businesses provide structured deal flow and often undergo vetting, making them less risky. ➥ Some sellers don’t even realize their business can be sold, while others prioritize terms over the highest price. Understanding seller psychology can create win-win deal structures. About The Guest Ross Gerson is the Founder of DealSlide.com, former broker at Empire Flippers for 2.5 years acquisition Advisor to WebStreet for roughly 3 years, bought and sold approximately 15-20 content sites for his portfolio Connect with Ross Gerson   ➥ https://dealslide.com/ ➥ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ross-gerson-888ba241/ Resource Links ➥ Buying Online Businesses Website - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com ➥ Sell your business to us here - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/sell-your-business/ ➥ Download the Due Diligence Framework - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/freeresources/➥ Connect with Jaryd here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarydkrause  ➥ Site Ground (Website Hosting) - https://bit.ly/3JBEC1u ➥ Surfer SEO (SEO tool for content writing) - https://bit.ly/3WWMKjM ➥ Convert Kit (Email Software Provider) - https://bit.ly/3o10Xgx 🔥Buy & Sell Online Businesses Here (Top Website Brokers We Use) 🔥 ➥ Empire Flippers - https://bit.ly/3RtyMkE ➥ Flippa - https://bit.ly/3wGa8r5 ➥ Motion Invest - https://bit.ly/3YmJAmO➥ Investors Club - https://bit.ly/3ZpgioR   *This post may contain affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site/posts at no additional cost to you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Mar 5, 2025 • 42min

Understanding M&A Legal Due Diligence & Fees When Acquiring An Online Business with Eric Hsu

Many people want to buy an online business but feel unsure about legal fees, when to hire a lawyer, and what legal due diligence involves. This podcast episode answers those questions. In this episode of the Buying Online Businesses podcast, Jaryd Krause talks with business attorney Eric Hsu. Eric helps professionals leave corporate jobs and start their own businesses by buying existing ones. He focuses on business purchases, offering advice on deal structures, legal risks, and market trends. He also shares helpful content on X, LinkedIn, and his blog. Unlike many lawyers, Eric works only on the buyer’s side, which means he is fully focused on protecting buyers. Jaryd and Eric discuss key legal steps in buying a business, including when legal due diligence is needed, what it involves, and how much it costs for deals of different sizes. They also explain the legal work done for letters of intent (LOI), asset purchase agreements, and other contracts. The conversation covers how buyers can include legal fees in SBA loans, what can cause deals to fall apart, and how to avoid costly mistakes. This episode is full of valuable tips for anyone looking to buy an online business. It’s a must-listen for buyers who want to protect themselves and make smart decisions. Let’s dive in! Episode Highlights 03:00 The smallest deal Eric worked on as an M&A lawyer 11:00 What’s the legal due diligence for online business? 17:30 Legal fees when acquiring a business 28:00 How to calculate working capital? 34:30 Silence on the seller side is a bad sign! 40:30 Where to find Eric? Key Takeaways ➥ Buyers often skip legal work for deals under $500K, but for larger acquisitions, legal review is crucial to avoid risks and costly mistakes. ➥ Identify potential tax liabilities through diligence and manage them via amnesty filings, indemnity escrows, or increased seller notes. ➥ A well-structured LOI clarifies deal terms, prevents misunderstandings, and makes the closing process smoother. ➥ Buyers using SBA financing can sometimes include legal fees in their loan, making it more affordable to get proper legal support. About The Guest Eric Hsu is a business attorney committed to helping individual searchers escape corporate life and dive into entrepreneurship through acquisition. Specializing in the intricacies of business buying, he provides strategic advice on deal structures and market trends. As an active content creator, Eric shares valuable insights across platforms like X, LinkedIn, and his blog, aiding corporate professionals in their journey to becoming successful business owners. Connect with Eric Hsu   ➥ https://erichsu.me ➥ https://x.com/lawyer4SMBs Resource Links ➥ Sell your business to us here - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/sell-your-business/ ➥ Buying Online Businesses Website - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com ➥ Download the Due Diligence Framework - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/freeresources/➥ Connect with Jaryd here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarydkrause  ➥ Site Ground (Website Hosting) - https://bit.ly/3JBEC1u ➥ Surfer SEO (SEO tool for content writing) - https://bit.ly/3WWMKjM ➥ Convert Kit (Email Software Provider) - https://bit.ly/3o10Xgx 🔥Buy & Sell Online Businesses Here (Top Website Brokers We Use) 🔥 ➥ Empire Flippers - https://bit.ly/3RtyMkE ➥ Flippa - https://bit.ly/3wGa8r5 ➥ Motion Invest - https://bit.ly/3YmJAmO➥ Investors Club - https://bit.ly/3ZpgioR   *This post may contain affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site/posts at no additional cost to you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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